Designing Democracy

Oct 2 · 3 min read

Today, the Folketing reveals its new visual identity. Kontrapunkt is behind the revised design that balances authority and openness with respect for the history of the Parliament in a design that is strong on digital formats.

"With the new design, we have created an expression that is both classic and contemporary while staying true to its historical legacy. The high quality of the seal helps maintain a dignified, recognisable and consistent framework around the Parliament and its institutions," says the Parliamentary Chairman, Pia Kjærsgaard (DF).

In order to ensure a long-term expression of Denmark's legislative power, extensive strategic work preceded the design process. Interviews and research clearly showed a Parliament that wishes to signal credibility, openness and orderliness - with respect for history.

Christiansborg Palace outside the walls

The identity consists of elements found in Christiansborg Palace, the home of the Folketing, and now unites all its institutions in one overall visual expression. Many people recognise the colours and patterns from TV or actual visits to the palace and, therefore, connect them to the Parliament. Now, the elements are brought to places where citizens meet the Folketing - whether it's at a committee visit in Hirtshals or at the annual people's meeting in Bornholm.

"Developing the Parliament's identity is an honourable job that we took on with great humility. We are proud of having created a contemporary expression that is true to more than 100 years of history. The design signals openness without compromising on authority," says Mikkel Lemvig, Senior Designer at Kontrapunkt.

The new typeface in the logo is strongly inspired by the features of the 1915 Constitution, which gave women the right to vote. The colour palette is taken from the flower frieze in the Walking Hall while the patterns are based on carpets and chair seats in the Parliament Hall alongside the entrance hall in Rigsdagsgården. Combined, the elements ensure a stylish and recognisable visual language that emphasises the historical anchorage.

Optimised for today

The update is due to the Parliament's ever-increasing need to be present digitally. The latest identity from 2007 does not work optimally on screens where many citizens meet the Folketing today. Thus, the new design is created digitally and optimised for screen usage. It is rolled out on numerous internal products as well as their TV channel that 6% of the population watch regularly